Craving a decadent, multi-layered dessert that tastes like your favorite store-bought candy bar but better? These peanut caramel chocolate candy bars bring together all the classic elements—creamy nougat, gooey caramel, crunchy peanuts, and rich chocolate—in a satisfying no-bake format.
The Ultimate No-Bake Candy Bar
With four distinct layers and no oven required, these bars are as fun to make as they are to eat. From the glossy chocolate-butterscotch base to the soft nougat packed with roasted peanuts, and a final layer of silky chocolate-peanut butter—each bite is pure nostalgia with a homemade twist.
Why These Bars Are a Must-Try:
- No baking required—just melting, layering, and chilling
- Easy to prep with everyday pantry ingredients
- Perfect for gifting, parties, and potlucks
- Makes 64 bars—plenty to go around
I originally made these bars for my nephew’s birthday when his go-to candy was out of stock. They were gone within minutes, and now they’re a family tradition for every celebration!
Ingredients for Peanut Caramel Chocolate Candy Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to create these irresistible layers:
Chocolate Base Layer:
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet, milk, or dark)
- 1/4 cup butterscotch chips
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
Nougat Layer:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 jar (198g) marshmallow crème
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups salted cocktail peanuts, roughly chopped
Caramel Layer:
- 1 bag (312g) caramels, unwrapped
- 3 tbsp heavy whipping cream
Chocolate Topping:
- 2/3 cup chocolate chips
- 3 tbsp creamy peanut butter
How to Make Peanut Caramel Chocolate Candy Bars
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over the sides for easy removal.
Step 2: Create the Chocolate Base
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and peanut butter in short intervals, stirring until smooth. Pour into the pan and spread evenly. Chill for 30 minutes until firm.
Step 3: Make the Nougat
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and whipping cream. Bring to a gentle boil and stir constantly for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in marshmallow crème, peanut butter, and vanilla. Fold in chopped peanuts. Spread over the chocolate layer and chill for another 30 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Caramel Layer
Microwave the caramels and cream until smooth and pourable. Spread over the nougat layer and refrigerate again for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Finish with Chocolate Topping
Melt the final chocolate chips and peanut butter. Pour and spread over the set caramel layer. Chill for at least 1 hour until completely firm.
Step 6: Cut and Store
Use a sharp knife (sprayed lightly with oil or warmed under hot water) to slice into 64 small squares. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Helpful Tips & Tricks
- Chill each layer thoroughly before adding the next to keep them defined and clean.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and neat slicing.
- Serve slightly chilled for the best texture and flavor balance.
- Spray your knife with non-stick spray or run it under hot water to get smooth, clean cuts.
- For controlled melting, a double boiler works well—especially when making this recipe with kids.
Final Thoughts
These peanut caramel chocolate candy bars are the ultimate homemade indulgence—rich, chewy, crunchy, and beautifully layered. With no baking required and a nostalgic flavor that rivals your favorite candy bar, this is a recipe you’ll return to for birthdays, holidays, or just because.